asked the Minister of Food why he refuses to permit the export of oatmeal and oat products to India and Pakistan; and when this trade may be resumed.

Exports within certain limits are allowed to these destinations.

Can the Minister say why in that case he has recently informed the manufacturers of these products that no permits can be issued, and is he aware that similar products are freely being imported into India from Australia?

No, Sir. I think that the hon. Gentleman has one particular transaction in mind. I think that that case might be reconsidered, but there is no general prohibition of exports to these destinations or any others.